MANILA (AsiaNews): Bishop Socrates Mesiona of the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa, criticised the Philippine government for issuing Special Tree Cutting and Excavation Permits [STCEP] linked to mining activities in Palawan, which will allow the felling of hundreds of thousands of trees.
Bishop Mesiona in a pastoral letter that, based on public documents and available data, at least 218,854 trees are already covered by STCEP permits granted for mining projects in areas such as Aborlan, Brooke’s Point, Bataraza and areas linked to Mount Bulanjao.
“It is surprising that the agencies which are supposed to protect the environment are seen as strict in enforcing the law against ordinary people, yet appear lenient and generous towards large mining companies and powerful individuals,” Bishop Mesiona said.
“This gives some the impression that there are two kinds of laws in our country: one for the rich and powerful, and one for the poor,” he added.
It is surprising that the agencies which are supposed to protect the environment are seen as strict in enforcing the law against ordinary people, yet appear lenient and generous towards large mining companies and powerful individuals
Bishop Socrates Mesiona
The bishop called for reforms to strengthen the protection of trees and forests.
“It takes many years for a tree to grow,” he wrote. “That is why it is painful to think that thousands of trees that have grown on our beautiful island over decades, and even centuries, can be felled in such a short time.”
The actual number of trees affected could be much higher than reported. The broader picture of the issue concerns not only the massive felling of trees, but also the responsible management of forest resources and concern for future generations.
Palawan, is home to some of the country’s most biodiverse forests, watersheds and areas.
Bishop Mesiona also called for the STCEPs to be made public and subject to scrutiny and oversight.
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The bishop also called for a public dialogue with those who will be affected. “Trees do not merely ‘beautify’ the environment; they also keep the world alive, something we often overlook until they are damaged and disappear,” he emphasised.
